Volkswagen Golf R Cabriolet (13 on) - Review

For the first time in its history Volkswagen has introduced a Golf R Cabriolet to its model line-up but it comes with an eye-watering starting price. From new, the VW Golf R Cabriolet is more expensive to buy than a Porsche Boxster.

Fastest Golf droptop ever

Based on the-sixth generation Golf this is the fastest Golf Cabriolet ever, completing the zero to 62mph sprint in 6.4 seconds and going on to a top speed of 155mph. That’s nearly a second quicker than the most powerful Golf GTI Cabriolet.

Under the bonnet, the VW Golf R Cabriolet is powered by a 261bhp 2.0-litre turbo engine with a maximum pulling power of 350Nm. The engine is mated to a six-speed DSG semi-automatic gearbox with paddle-shifters are located behind the steering.

VW Golf R Cabriolet equipment

Design cues making the R stand out from the GTI Cabriolet include a bespoke front bumper with black grille and R logo, LED daytime running lights, LED rear lights, 18-inch alloy wheels, gloss-black door mirror casings and black-painted brake callipers with R logo.

The R is well equipped. Highlights include sport seats (front), leather upholstery, automatic climate control, audio system with CD player and a sport chassis.

The canvas hood opens in 9.0 seconds and closes in 11.5 seconds (the additional 1.5 seconds is the time it takes to carry out the automatic locking procedure). It can be opened and closed up to speeds of 18mph – always handy if the weather is changeable.

Economy and emissions

Claimed average fuel consumption should be fairly decent at 34.4mpg. In real world driving expect to see high 20s – that’s not too shabby given that this is the quickest Golf Cabriolet ever produced. Unfortunately emissions are high and come out at 190g/km of CO2.

On the road the Golf R Cabriolet never feels that quick but it does offers something distinctly above and beyond the GTI – there’s no roof. If you think you want speed as well as wind-in-the-hair motoring read the full VW Golf R Cabriolet full review that follows.